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Pic line & the gym- what exercises/equipment should I avoid?

story78
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Hi All

I have a pic line inserted into my arm for the duration of my chemo for breast cancer.

After my first session of EC, I felt like I had been steamrolled but 10 days on, I feel more like my normal self. The gym was a big part of my life pre-diagnosis and I would like to go back as and when I feel well enough.

My question is what exercises/ equipment should I avoid that could potentially dislodge the pic line. My chemo nurse said no swimming and also avoid the rowing machine (the repetitiveness can dislodge it apparently)

Anyone with any advice? X

  • Hello story78

    I've had a good look but can't see that there are any official guidelines about exercising with a PICC line in situ. Hopefully, if we've anyone here who has experience they'll reply to share their tips with you. 

    If you're a regular gym goer then listen to your body and if something doesn't feel right then stop. Take things gently, to begin with, and if there's a Personal Trainer available at the gym then maybe have a chat with them to see if they have any advice or suggestions about other ways that you can exercise. 

    If you want to chat with our nurses, they're back in the office on Tuesday on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm. 

    Good luck with the rest of your treatment. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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